May 13 2023 85 mins
In this episode of Scaler Pod, we have Rajiv Srivatsa, Partner/Investor, Antler. He walks us through the world of venture capital, building successful startups, funding and more.
Check all other episodes: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLhBy6YSIT0DjPC-a9j-Alz21GHOjzrVe Rajiv Srivatsa has around 20 years of experience in the technology industry, creating scalable businesses and products in the B2C tech, mobile, supply chain, and retail sectors. Currently, he is leading the deployment and operations of the global early-stage VC firm Antler in India. Prior to this, he co-founded Urban Ladder, India's top omnichannel brand for furniture. He starts off by explaining what exactly Venture Capital (VC) is and the important role they play in the startup ecosystem. He talks about the different types of VC funding and what startups should consider when seeking investment. Also, telling about his journey from founder to VC as well as the processes he goes through each day.
👉🏽If you are a tech leader, engineer or coder looking to become a founder, check out the Antler Residency: antler.co/india-residency 👉🏽Learn more about Antler: antler.co/india Rajiv also discusses the key factors that entrepreneurs should consider when starting a company, including when to start, how to get started, and how to choose the right co-founder. He shares some valuable tips and strategies for building a successful startup, including the importance of product-market fit, customer acquisition, and scalability. In addition, he offers advice for those who are considering making the shift from a traditional job to starting their own company. He shares his thoughts on the challenges and rewards of being a tech founder, and how to navigate the unique opportunities and obstacles that come with building a technology-driven startup. Lastly, he also touches upon the future of startups in India and how they can help boost the economy. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned startup founder, or just interested in the world of venture capital and entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice that you won't want to miss. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction - Rajiv Srivatsa, Partner, Antler 01:04 A Day in the Life of a Venture Capitalist(VC) 04:51 His Journey from Job - Founder - VC 13:38 Who is a Venture Capitalist (VC) and what does a VC do? 16:41 How do VC and firms like Antler, Y Combinator Operate? 25:07 Importance of VC and Startups in India 28:02 When you should Startup and how to raise Funding? 32:40 Is a co-founder needed to Startup? 34:48 Converting an Idea into a Startup 38:19 How can one make Shift from a Job to becoming a Founder? 45:12 Engineers, finding a problem and building products 47:03 Different Programs that Antler Offers(Fellowship, Residency, etc) and Choosing a VC 56:50 How to Choose the Best Investor for a Startup? 1:02:00 Choosing an Idea for a Startup and Advice for Tech Co-founders 1:07:29 Importance of Credibility and moving from IC, EM to Founder roles 1:12:59 Thoughts on common risks associated with doing Startup (Career Map explained) 1:23:23 Future Scope of Startups in India
#Startups #VentureCapital #ScalerPod #Antler